Should Cowboys be laughing on sidelines while getting blown out?

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If you were getting blown out on national television, would you be smiling?

That's a question some are asking after the broadcast of the Cowboys-Bears game showed two Cowboys enjoying a laugh on the sidelines.

Offensive linemen Doug Free and Mackenzy Bernadeau appeared to be laughing on the sidelines during the Cowboys' blowout loss to the Bears.

By virtue of his seniority and salary, Free is the leader of the Cowboys’ offensive line. The 28-year-old right tackle, who wields influence over the four blockers beside him, is expected to set an example. But he's struggled so far this season.

In the first three games this season, he allowed one sack, two quarterback hits and eight hurries. Even worse, he committed more penalties than all but one player in the NFL — his teammate, left tackle Tyron Smith.

Free’s problems haven’t materialized overnight. There has been a pattern of poor play dating back to the time he re-signed with the team, agreeing to a four-year, $32 million contract in July 2011.